The ears from some sirup buckets were removed and three of them soldered, at equal distances apart, on the bottom of the washbasin near the outside edge of the lower part. These prevented the wear from coming on the bottom of the basin, and it lasted several times as long as ordinarily.-Contributed by A. A. Ashley, Blanket, Texas (The Boy Mechanic, 1915)

As Shellac is the basis of almost all cements, a good cement can be made by thickening Shellac varnish with dry white lead. The two may be worked together on a piece of glass with a putty knife. -- The Boy Mechanic (1915) This too and trick is probably not relevant anymore due to the Lead content. Still interesting.

In using the polishes now on the market for tan shoes, I found that the leather cracked in an unreasonably short time. The following was sug-gested and tried out with good results. Wash the shoes with castile soap and water by applying the mixture with a dauber. Work up a little lather and then rub dry with a cloth, without rinsing. The leather will be cleaned without becoming dark, and it will not crack. A higher polish may be obtained by using some paste polish in the usual manner. - Contributed by George Bliss, Washington, D. C. The Boy Mechanic (1915)

Having experienced some difficulty in obtaining good toast over a gas or open fire I tried the following plan with good results: An old tin pan was placed over the flame and the ordinary wire bread toaster clasping the slice of bread was held about 1/2 in. from the pan. In a few minutes the toast was crisp and ready to serve. -- Contributed by Katy Doherty, New York City "The Boy Mechanic" Book 2 (1915)